The caixa drum is a cylindrical, snare-like drum that is traditionally played with two thin wooden sticks. It is an essential part of the batucada samba percussion ensemble, which is often composed of surdos, tamborins, agogôs, and the caixa.
_Characteristics_
- Cylindrical, made from wood
- One head - traditionally goatskin
- Snares along one edge of head, which give it a snare drum-like sound
- Sticks are held loosely so they produce a soft, almost brush-like sound
The caixa is played with a variety of techniques, including:
* Golpeados - single strokes played one hand after the other
* Alternativa - alternating strokes between the hands at a fast tempo
* Rolando - rolling technique that involves bouncing the sticks on the drum head
* Esquerda - the hand that plays the left stick
* Direita - the hand that plays the right stick
* Batimento - a single stroke played on the rim of the drum
_History_
The caixa drum originated in Brazil, where it was first used by African slaves in the 18th century. The tambor de corda (tambor com cordas) is the precursor of the caixa and was introduced by African slaves in the 16th century. These slaves used the caixa drum to accompany their dances, songs, and rituals. Over time, the caixa drum became an integral part of Brazilian samba music and is now played all over the world.
The caixa drum is also used in various Caribbean music styles, such as salsa, merengue, and cumbia.
Playing the Caixa
The caixa is a versatile drum that can be played in a variety of settings. It is commonly played in samba bands, Afro-Brazilian Ensembles, and drum lines.
To play the caixa drum, you hold it horizontally in your lap, with the head facing up. The sticks should be gripped lightly, with your palms facing down. The basic stroke is a single stroke, which is played by alternating hands. You can also play rolls and other techniques by varying the way you hold the sticks and move them across the drum head.